Business Details
Chichester's Oldest Family Jewellers Since 1794
Established in 1794, R.L. Austen is an independent family-run jeweller based in Chichester, West Sussex. With over two centuries of heritage, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern expertise to offer a comprehensive range of services including jewellery and watch repairs, valuations, and bespoke commissions. Our team of certified professionals, including award-winning valuer Shirley Mitchell, brings decades of combined experience in gemmology, horology, and fine jewellery. We specialise in diamonds, coloured gemstones, pearls, and luxury timepieces from renowned brands such as TUDOR, Grand Seiko, and TISSOT. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our 4.9/5 Google rating, with customers consistently praising our knowledgeable staff, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service.We maintain strict adherence to ethical standards, offering laboratory-grown diamonds and pre-owned jewellery options to cater to diverse preferences. Our historic premises at 2-3 East Street house a luxurious watch showroom and workshop facilities, ensuring clients receive both expert technical care and a curated shopping experience. This combination of heritage, technical proficiency, and client-focused service has established us as one of Chichester's most trusted jewellers.
Services
Jewellery Repairs
Watch Repairs
Valuations
Bespoke Commissions
Diamond Sales
Pearl Re-stringing
Watch Servicing
Ring Resizing
Gemstone Setting
Pre-owned Jewellery
Highlights and features
- We offer over 225 years of combined experience in jewellery and horology
- Our team includes certified valuers and specialist watchmakers
- We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- We maintain in-house repair facilities for faster service
- We offer interest-free credit options for purchases
What people say
Exceptional customer service
Knowledgeable staff
Transparent pricing
Expert repairs
Luxurious showroom
Services
Jewellery Repairs
Our expert jewellers handle everything from simple ring resizing to complex restorations. We use traditional techniques combined with modern technology to ensure precise repairs. Clients receive detailed explanations of required work and cost estimates before any procedure begins.
Watch Servicing
Certified watchmakers perform complete servicing for luxury timepieces including movement overhaul and water resistance testing. We maintain brand-specific tools and follow manufacturer guidelines for TUDOR, Grand Seiko, and TISSOT models. Servicing includes warranty validation assistance.
Valuations
Award-winning valuer Shirley Mitchell provides detailed insurance valuations and probate assessments. The process includes gemmological analysis, provenance verification, and market value determination. Clients receive comprehensive written reports compliant with insurance requirements.
Bespoke Commissions
We create unique jewellery pieces through collaborative design consultations. The process includes CAD visualisations, precious metal selection, and gemstone sourcing. Clients work directly with master jewellers throughout the creation process to ensure personal significance and technical excellence.
Diamond Sales
Our inventory includes certified diamonds from 0.3ct to 2ct+, available in various cuts and settings. We offer both laboratory-grown and natural diamonds with full provenance documentation. Expert consultants provide detailed explanations of the 4Cs grading system during selection.
People
Shirley Mitchell
Award-winning Valuer
FGA and DGA qualified valuer with 25+ years experience in gemmology and jewellery appraisal. Specialises in antique pieces and insurance valuations. Maintains strict adherence to valuation standards while providing accessible explanations to clients.
Peter Mellor
Watch Manager
Certified watchmaker with expertise in luxury timepieces. Specialises in TUDOR and Grand Seiko models. Provides technical consultations and repair services while maintaining client-focused communication throughout the process.
Debbie Rose
Sales Consultant
Jewellery specialist with 15+ years in luxury retail. Focuses on client relationship management and product knowledge. Trained in gemstone identification and ethical sourcing practices for informed purchasing decisions.
Gary
Senior Sales Associate
Experienced in luxury watch sales with particular knowledge of mechanical movements. Provides detailed product demonstrations and after-sales support. Maintains strong client relationships through consistent follow-up and service.
Joshua Mount
Store Manager
Oversees daily operations with focus on service excellence. Coordinates between technical and sales teams to ensure seamless client experiences. Implements training programs to maintain high staff expertise standards.
Questions
What services does R.L. Austen offer?
We provide jewellery and watch repairs, valuations, bespoke commissions, and sales of luxury timepieces and fine jewellery. Our services include ring resizing, pearl re-stringing, and certified appraisals.
Are your valuations accepted by insurance companies?
Yes, our valuations by FGA-certified Shirley Mitchell meet insurance requirements. We provide detailed reports with photographic documentation and market value assessments for all items.
Do you offer interest-free credit?
We provide up to 24 months interest-free credit on purchases, subject to approval. This option appears during online checkout or can be arranged in-store with our sales team.
Can you repair pre-owned watches?
Yes, our certified watchmakers service both new and pre-owned timepieces. We maintain original specifications while ensuring functionality, including sourcing period-correct replacement parts when required.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit/debit cards, bank transfers, and interest-free credit options. Payment plans require prior arrangement with our finance team for larger purchases.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be booked through our website or by calling 01243 782135. We recommend scheduling for valuations, bespoke consultations, or complex repair assessments to ensure dedicated time with specialists.
